15/06/2025
Kanvee Suebsaeng, a party-list MP for the Fair Party, posted on Facebook Sunday that it was "not unexpected" that Cambodia used the symbolism of an international forum to announce to the world that it was "much more advanced" than Thailand in preparing to fight border disputes with Thailand, especially in the midst of border negotiations with Cambodia.
Kanvee stated that Cambodia's "slap in the face" of Thailand during the JBC meeting on border disputes, by rushing to petition the International Court of Justice (ICJ) today. Cambodia chose today (June 15), to file a lawsuit with the ICJ concerning border disputes in 4 areas: Ta Muen Thom, Ta Muen Toch, Ta Krabey temples, and Chong Bok pass. This is because on this day in the past, Cambodia won the Preah Vihear temple case at the ICJ in 1962, or 63 years ago.
"It's both a 'mou' (auspicious) matter and an opportune time, as they've prepared for JBC negotiations today and are teaching Thailand a lesson, showing they are truly ahead. Even if Thailand doesn't accept the World Court's jurisdiction, I've always emphasized that we must be wary of the Cambodian government's full efforts to make this an 'old matter' that can be brought before the World Court," Kanvee stated.
He further stated, "What has Thailand prepared, if anything? Do you know how they prepared? Do you know if they are claiming this as a new case or possibly referencing an old one? Why today, June 14-15, when the JBC is negotiating but making no progress?"
"It's good that yesterday Thailand officially announced at the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs that it does not officially accept the World Court's jurisdiction. But the entire Thai nation is waiting to hear what's next. Cambodia is cunning and 'sly' in international politics. They see a loophole in Thailand's weak internal political stability and have cleverly used this opportunity. We await Thailand's official response, as well as its lobbying plan on the world stage. I want to see Thailand's proactive diplomatic strategy. There's no need to hold back anymore; put everything you have into it. Now is not the time to be shy or to keep things hidden," Kanvee stated.